Tuesday, 1 November 2016

Euro Bus Expo - Launch of Volvo B5LHC

World
Premiere for Volvo B5LHC Double Deck Electric Hybrid

The
latest bus in the growing Volvo Electromobility range

The B5LHC has bodywork produced by Wrights

The
Volvo B5LHC Double Deck builds on the success of the Volvo 7900
Single Deck Electric Hybrid bus launched in 2014. The B5LHC
Electric Hybrid driveline is an extension of the well-proven
technology used as standard in the Volvo B5LH Hybrid. The difference
lies in a more powerful electric motor, increased capacity Lithium
Ion battery rated at 19kWh and equipment for opportunity charging.

The
new Volvo B5LHC has the abilty to operate with zero tail pipe
emissions in electric mode for around 7 kms between charging meaning less noise and cleaner air not only on the route but at bus
stops and end termini. Once outside city centre zero emissions
zones, the B5LHC has the ability to perform as an efficient hybrid
vehicle, giving greater flexibility and operating range. Designed
with regenerative braking, energy usually lost to braking is
recovered to further enhance efficiencies and extend the electric
range.

The
B5LHC shares the same conductive opportunity charging system used on
the full Electric 7900E and Electric Hybrid 7900EH vehicles, giving
flexibility and interoperability for operators and local authorities.
Charging is fully automated and takes between three and six minutes.
The infrastructure creates new opportunities for urban planning, for
example allowing for the design of indoor bus termini.

The
charging system can be integrated into any part of the city
streetscape; each charging solution includes the complete interface
between the power network, the energy supplier, the equipment and the
vehicle.

It
uses a pantograph which makes physical contact with the bus from
above. This optimises charging efficiency and provides the ability to
safely charge whilst passengers embark and disembark. All moving
parts are integrated into the charging system, while the contact
rails on the bus are fixed-mount connectors. This minimises the need
for additional maintenance on the bus and reduces vehicle weight,
which in turn increases passenger capacity and vehicle efficiency.

The launch vehicle –
which has been built to Transport for London (TfL) specification and
features the SRM body style developed by Wrightbus – is scheduled
for evaluation in London during 2017. Certified with a passenger
capacity of 87, the new Electric Hybrid Double Deck has 43 seats on
the top deck with 17 seats in the lower saloon to a two-door
specification.

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